David’s Real Estate Blog
Drawing on nearly 30 years of experience in Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, I share the market insights, strategies, and local knowledge you need to make your next move with confidence.
David’s Real Estate Blog
Drawing on nearly 30 years of experience in Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, I share the market insights, strategies, and local knowledge you need to make your next move with confidence.
Two major BC cities just had some of the biggest monthly rent increases in Canada
Rent prices in major B.C. cities are rising, with Vancouver leading as the priciest for one-bedroom rentals at a median of $2,400, up 2.1% from last month. Vancouver also has the highest two-bedroom rent at $3,370. Victoria's two-bedroom rents increased 4% to $2,630. Other cities like Burnaby, Kelowna, and Abbotsford also saw rent increases. Despite rises, one-bedroom rents remain cheaper than last year in most markets.
Canada: Know Your Flipping Tax Obligations
In Canada, property flipping means buying and reselling homes quickly for profit, and it can involve individuals as well as Real Estate agents.
It also includes assignment sales, where a property is bought and sold before official sale or construction, sometimes referred to as shadow flipping.
Money earned on all Real Estate transactions, including flips and assignment sales, must be reported in Canada, and that can include related fees or commissions.
Profits from flipping Real Estate are generally treated as fully taxable business income in Canada, and the principal residence exemption does not apply.
Some transactions may also trigger GST/HST, with sellers responsible for remitting it, while the tax agency has been addressing non-compliance and improper exemption claims.
Global Private Island Market Builds Momentum
In 2026, the Global private island market was projected at $7.99B, with forecasts pointing to continued strong expansion at a ~9% pace.
By 2030, the market was expected to reach $11.27B as buyers pursued ultra-exclusive, off-grid properties and owners explored tokenization and fractional ownership models.
Growth drivers included rising global wealth, stronger luxury tourism demand, better maritime access, offshore tax-efficient holdings, and growing interest in secluded lifestyle and investment assets.
These properties involved full islands or island parcels under exclusive control, typically used for residences, resorts, or investments valued for privacy, exclusivity, and natural surroundings.
Looking ahead, AI-powered management, autonomous marine links, and stricter environmental and coastal zoning rules were expected to shape how this niche market evolves.
Canada’s Top Cities for 2026
A recent 2026 ranking compared Canadian cities on affordability, safety, climate, employment, and housing, offering a broad guide for movers seeking the right fit.
Calgary ranked first again, pairing $63.7K avg. salary with moderate living costs, strong health care, low crime, low taxes, and appeal for work-life balance.
Ottawa placed second and Edmonton third, with Ottawa praised for purchasing power and family life, while Edmonton stood out for affordable homeownership, sunshine, and festivals.
Montréal ranked fourth with bilingual, arts, and affordability appeal, while Toronto and Vancouver still made the list despite pricier homes and stronger big-city career draws.
Several smaller cities also ranked highly, reflecting demand for affordability, outdoor access, and a slower pace alongside work opportunities and family-friendly lifestyles.
The best city depended on personal priorities, with Canadian communities offering different mixes of natural beauty, urban convenience, enter
Population Slowdown Eases Pressure on Canada’s Housing Market
Canada's population decline in 2025, driven by a sharp drop in non-permanent residents, is easing rental demand and slowing housing inflation. Rental units under construction now outnumber condos and homes, leading to weaker rents and condo investment. Despite slower population growth, economic growth remains modest, with improved affordability and rising unemployment per job vacancy. The slowdown may correct prior unsustainable growth and improve housing affordability.
Can Canada Meet Housing Demand?
Population growth continues increasing housing demand faster than many regions can add new supply.
Governments are introducing policies designed to accelerate construction and improve housing availability.
Labour shortages, development costs, and approval delays remain significant obstacles to faster building activity.
Housing experts agree that sustained construction increases are necessary to improve long-term affordability.
Improving housing affordability continues in most Canadian major markets
Canada's national housing affordability improved to a four-year best at 53% in Q1 2026, led by gains in Vancouver and Toronto, though both remain least affordable. Condo affordability nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels nationally, while single-detached homes remain costly. Price declines are tapering, and interest rates have likely bottomed, limiting further mortgage cost reductions. Some markets like Montreal and Quebec City saw rising costs, while others like Calgary and Saskatoon show normalized affordability supporting solid activity.